Course in General English, Computing & IT Skills

BBSI is a highly-accredited UK English school and business college. We offer international students the opportunity to learn English in the UK, and provide the education facilities to allow students of English, computing and IT to develop their competence and study for an internationally-recognised qualification.

The BBSI Certificate course in General English, Computing & IT Skills can be studied for periods of between 4 and 12 weeks, and is carefully designed for students with a minimum English language level of IELTS [Academic] 5.0, ie CEFR B2, who need to build their English-language communication skills, while also developing their knowledge of Microsoft^® software, computers, computing, and IT skills.

Students are tested and interviewed on arrival at BBSI and are then placed in international English-language classes at an appropriate level for their language studies. In addition, they are provided with teacher-guided project workand the use of a variety of basic IT computer software packages within the computing and IT skills elements.

International Computer Driving Licence^®(ICDL^®). Participants choosing the full 12-week option can study towards the ICDL^® qualification. The ICDL^®is an internationally-recognised qualification that verifies practical competence in computer skills, in either a professional or personal capacity, and is the fastest growing international IT user qualification. No prior knowledge of IT or computer skills is needed, but students without prior knowledge of IT must start in week one of the course. The ICDL^® raises an individual's level of competency in IT and computing skills; improves personal productivity, both at home and at work and provides individuals with an internationally-recognised qualification.

Course Objectives. The course objectives are to:

      * develop a sound knowledge of English grammar
      * acquire a broad range of relevant English vocabulary
      * develop effective listening & reading skills
      * build fluency & confidence in speaking & pronunciation
      * integrate students into living in the UK
      * maximise the learning experience in the UK
      * acquire the specialised vocabulary of computers, computing & IT
      * become familiar with Microsoft Internet Explorer^® and other browsers
      * practise using Microsoft Outlook Express^®& other e-mail software
      * develop word-processing skills using Microsoft Word^®* create spreadsheets, tables, graphs & charts using Microsoft Excel^®* become familiar with basic presentation skills using Microsoft PowerPoint^®* prepare students for an internationally-recognised computer skills qualification (optional)

Course Elements. This Certificate course provides training in English-language development and specialised elements within the following topics:

* using the computer and managing files

      * adjusting settings, manipulating files, computer security
      * word processing: formatting, tables
      * word processing: mail merging, importing objects
      * using the Internet

      * web browsing, email
      * web security
      * concepts of information technology
      * hardware and software

      * storage and memory
      * legal and security issues
      * future technologies
      * spreadsheets: elements, principles, editing, formatting
      * spreadsheets: multiple sheets, charting
      * databases: editing , sorting, searching
      * databases: reporting, multiple tables
      * presentations: working with charts, automating slides

Course Details.

Minimum Entry Level. IELTS 5.0/CEFR B2.

Minimum Age. 17 years.

Main Course Entry Dates. Sep, Jan, Apr or Jul; however, flexible entry dates are available

for these courses (term dates 2011/12).

Course Code. EIT

Course Code. Academic achievement is ascertained by means of continuous assessment.

      BBSI Certificate in General English, Computing & IT Skills

Optional External Examination*. Additional examination fees apply.

      International Computer Driving Licence^®(examination dates)

Course Structure & Content. A minimum of 4 weeks' study is required, comprising 30, forty-five minute lessons (22.5 hours total) weekly. Course breakdown is as follows:

      20 lessons weekly of English language study to include:

             10 lessons weekly in grammar & functions

               2 lessons weekly in vocabulary development
               4 lessons weekly in reading & writing skills

               4 lessons weekly in speaking, listening & pronunciation

      10 lessons weekly in computers, computing & IT Skills

BBSI English-language courses are designed and structured at different language levels to enable international students to develop all 4 English language skills simultaneously, as well as their knowledge of English grammar and vocabulary. Our system of learning also enables students at an Intermediate Level of English and above to progress to developing their communication skills in academic, vocational or professional context.